The Indian Navy has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, particularly with the integration of Tactical Unmanned Systems into its operational framework. This evolution is driven by the need to enhance maritime security, improve surveillance capabilities, and maintain strategic dominance in a region where threats are increasingly complex. The changing geopolitical landscape, characterised by rising tensions with neighbouring countries and increased maritime threats such as piracy and terrorism, has necessitated advancements in naval technology.
The use of unmanned systems in naval warfare is not new; however, their application has gained momentum due to technological advancements and the changing nature of warfare. For instance, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) can be used for underwater surveillance, mine detection and even underwater sabotage, often without the enemy being aware of their presence. Their stealthy nature allows navies to conduct sensitive operations in contested regions without risking direct confrontation or escalating tensions.
The devastation caused to warships by drones in the Ukraine War has forced the naval brass worldwide to look at these unmanned attack systems in a new light. The Indian Navy recognised the potential of unmanned systems early on and began incorporating various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned surface vessels (USVs), and UUVs into its operational strategy.
According to Commodore Seshadri Vasan, the Indian Navy has been closely tracking global developments, particularly the lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He points out that the most significant advantage of unmanned systems is their cost-effectiveness. At an estimated cost of around Rs 25 crore, they offer an affordable alternative compared with conventional submarines or warships, which are much more expensive to build and maintain.
Furthermore, the lack of human involvement in operations – except for guidance – makes unmanned systems even more appealing. Some of these vessels can operate autonomously, leveraging Artificial Intelligence to carry out missions with minimal human intervention.
The defence expert also highlights the key driver behind the growing adoption of unmanned vehicles: reducing human casualties. “For example, sinking an aircraft carrier would not only be a devastating blow to a naval force, given the billions of dollars invested in it, but it would also result in the tragic loss of many lives.” In contrast, unmanned systems eliminate the risk to personnel, making them ideal for high-risk missions, particularly in areas wherein manned vessels, such as submarines, may not be able to operate due to depth constraints or enemy firepower.
The devastation caused to warships by drones in the Ukraine War has forced the naval brass worldwide to look at unmanned attack systems in a new light. The Indian Navy recognised the potential of unmanned systems early on and began incorporating various types of UAVs, USVs, and UUVs into its operational strategy
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
The Navy operates several UAVs for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Currently, it utilises Israeli-made Heron and Searcher Mk II drones, which have proven effective for maritime duties. These UAVs are equipped with advanced sensors and imaging systems that enhance situational awareness and target acquisition capabilities.
The integration of UAVs into the Indian Navy’s arsenal has already proven to be a game-changer. Since 2020, the Navy has been operating two MQ-9A UAVs on lease from General Atomics. These UAVs have been deployed for surveillance over a vast operational area, covering more than 14 million square miles. The UAVs enhance the Navy’s ISR capabilities, providing real-time aerial imagery, targeting information and early warning of potential threats.
The Navy’s UAVs are equipped to perform multi-dimensional roles, from monitoring enemy activities to supporting search-and-rescue operations and delivering precise strikes when needed. As the Navy continues to expand its UAV fleet, these aerial platforms will complement the growing network of unmanned systems deployed across the surface and subsurface domains.
In 2024, the Navy issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Naval Ship-borne Unmanned Aerial Systems (NSUAS), signalling a move towards more specialised aerial platforms capable of operating from naval vessels. These systems are expected to support various missions including anti-piracy operations, coastal surveillance, and search and rescue missions.
Unmanned Surface Vessels
One of the most notable advancements in the Indian Navy’s unmanned capabilities is the introduction of USVs. The recently showcased autonomous surface vessel Matangi represents a significant leap forward. Capable of traversing 1,500 km autonomously, Matangi is designed for ISR missions and can be reconfigured for various roles such as reconnaissance or armed strike missions. Its ability to operate without human intervention allows for enhanced operational flexibility and reduced risk to personnel.
The strategic importance of USVs lies in their ability to monitor vast maritime areas while minimising costs associated with manned vessels. Moreover, they can be deployed in hostile environments where traditional ships might face significant risks.
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles
The Indian Navy is also expanding its capabilities with large unmanned underwater vessels weighing approximately 100 tonnes. These UUVs will be equipped with advanced combat capabilities including weapons systems and surveillance equipment. Their deployment is aimed at enhancing India’s ability to monitor deep-sea areas far from the coastline, thus improving strategic oversight over critical maritime zones.
The introduction of UUVs marks a pivotal shift towards more sophisticated underwater warfare capabilities. Their stealthy nature allows them to conduct operations without detection, making them ideal for covert missions such as reconnaissance and intelligence gathering.
The integration of Tactical Unmanned Systems into the Indian Navy’s operational framework holds several strategic advantages:
Enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness
Unmanned systems significantly improve maritime domain awareness, allowing the Navy to monitor vast expanses of the ocean more effectively. This capability is crucial given the increasing presence of foreign naval forces in the IOR and the ongoing challenges posed by piracy and smuggling activities.
One of the most notable advancements in the Indian Navy’s unmanned capabilities is the introduction of USVs. The recently showcased autonomous surface vessel Matangi represents a significant leap forward. It is designed for ISR missions and can be reconfigured for various roles such as reconnaissance or armed strike missions
Cost-Effectiveness
Unmanned systems are generally more cost-effective than traditional manned vessels. For instance, deploying UUVs involves lower operational costs compared to conventional submarines or surface ships. This cost-effectiveness allows for greater flexibility in resource allocation within the Navy’s budget constraints.
Reduced Risk to Personnel
By utilising unmanned platforms for high-risk missions, the Indian Navy can minimise potential casualties among its personnel. This aspect is particularly important given the dangers associated with modern naval warfare.
Adaptability to Evolving Threats
The dynamic nature of maritime threats requires a flexible response capability. Unmanned systems can be rapidly reconfigured for different missions or operational contexts, making them invaluable assets in an era where adaptability is key.
Challenges Ahead
The integration of unmanned systems into the Indian Navy’s operational framework represents a significant advancement in modern naval warfare. However, this transition is not without its challenges. The Navy faces several key obstacles in effectively incorporating Tactical Unmanned Systems into its maritime operations.
Development and Indigenisation
While the Navy is making strides toward self-reliance through initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the development of advanced unmanned systems still heavily relies on foreign technology and expertise. Despite efforts to build indigenous capabilities, there remains a gap in high-tech components such as sensors, communication systems, and artificial intelligence algorithms that are critical for the effective operation of unmanned vehicles. The challenge lies in scaling domestic production while ensuring these systems meet international standards of reliability and performance.
Integration with Existing Systems
Integrating unmanned systems with existing naval platforms poses a significant technological hurdle. The Indian Navy must ensure that these systems can seamlessly operate alongside traditional manned vessels and other assets within its fleet. This requires sophisticated combat management systems that can process data from various sources, including unmanned vehicles, and provide real-time situational awareness to commanders. Achieving this level of integration demands substantial investment in research and development as well as extensive testing.
Cybersecurity Risks
The reliance on unmanned systems introduces vulnerabilities related to cybersecurity. As these platforms operate remotely and often rely on satellite communications, they are susceptible to hacking and electronic warfare tactics employed by adversaries. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures are in place to protect these systems from potential threats is essential for maintaining operational integrity.
While the Navy is making strides toward self-reliance, the development of advanced unmanned systems heavily relies on foreign technology and expertise. There remains a gap in high-tech components such as sensors, communication systems, and AI algorithms critical for the operation of unmanned vehicles
Training and Skill Development
The successful deployment of unmanned systems requires personnel trained in operating and maintaining these advanced technologies. The Indian Navy faces the challenge of developing a workforce skilled in new operational paradigms associated with unmanned platforms, including remote piloting, data analysis, and maintenance. This necessitates comprehensive training programmes that can keep pace with rapidly evolving technologies.
Logistics and Sustainment
Unmanned systems introduce unique logistical challenges, including the need for specialised support infrastructure for their deployment and maintenance. The Indian Navy must establish efficient supply chains to ensure that unmanned vehicles are readily available for operations while also managing the logistics associated with their repair and upkeep. Additionally, the operational range of these systems must be supported by adequate resupply capabilities to sustain prolonged missions.
Operational Doctrine Development
The introduction of unmanned systems requires a re-evaluation of existing naval doctrines and strategies. The Indian Navy must develop new operational concepts that effectively leverage the unique capabilities of TUS while also addressing potential limitations. This includes determining how best to employ these systems in various scenarios, from surveillance to combat operations, and integrating them into joint operations with other branches of the armed forces.
Infrastructure Readiness
The successful deployment of unmanned systems demands significant investment in infrastructure, including launch and recovery facilities for aerial and underwater vehicles, as well as maintenance depots equipped with advanced technologies. The Indian Navy must prioritise upgrading existing facilities or constructing new ones to accommodate the needs of TUS effectively.
Research and Development Ecosystem
Building a robust ecosystem for research and development is crucial for advancing India’s capabilities in unmanned systems. This involves fostering collaboration between defence research organisations, private industry, and academic institutions to drive innovation. However, establishing this ecosystem takes time and resources, posing a challenge for rapid integration into operational frameworks.
Sailing into a New Era
As the Indian Navy continues to modernise, unmanned systems will play a pivotal role in shaping its future operational strategies. From expanding its capabilities in anti-submarine warfare to enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance in the Indian Ocean, unmanned systems offer a multi-dimensional solution to the Navy’s evolving needs.
The Navy’s push towards unmanned systems aligns with India’s broader defence modernisation goals, reinforcing its maritime power in the Indo-Pacific. These platforms will provide a significant strategic advantage, allowing the Indian Navy to project power, monitor regional waters, and respond swiftly to emerging threats — all while minimising the risk to personnel and enhancing operational efficiency.
As the technology continues to mature, the Indian Navy’s fleet of unmanned underwater, surface, and aerial vehicles will play an increasingly central role in securing India’s maritime interests and ensuring its dominance in the region’s waters. The future of naval warfare is autonomous, and the Indian Navy is positioning itself as a key player in this transformation.
–The writer is a globally cited defence analyst. His work has been published by leading think tanks, and quoted extensively in books on diplomacy, counter terrorism, warfare and economic development. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
